Maryland Assault & Battery Laws: Your Legal Guide

Key Takeaways: Maryland Assault & Battery Laws

  • Understanding the distinctions between first-degree and second-degree assault in Maryland is crucial, as penalties vary significantly based on intent and harm caused.
  • Maryland’s legal system considers both assault (attempted battery or placing another in fear of battery) and battery (unlawful physical contact) under its comprehensive assault statutes.
  • Aggressive legal defense strategies, including self-defense, defense of others, and challenging the prosecution’s evidence, are vital when facing Maryland assault charges.
  • The legal process in Maryland, from arrest to trial, involves specific steps and agencies, requiring knowledgeable legal counsel to navigate effectively.
  • A conviction for assault or battery in Maryland carries severe long-term consequences, impacting employment, housing, and personal freedoms far beyond initial sentencing.

Maryland Assault and Battery Laws: A Comprehensive Guide from Seasoned Attorneys

Having practiced law in Maryland for over two decades, I’ve seen firsthand the profound impact that charges related to assault and battery can have on individuals and their families. These are not minor infractions; they carry serious legal consequences, affecting everything from your freedom to your future employment prospects. In Maryland, the legal framework for assault and battery is complex, encompassing various degrees of offenses with distinct elements and penalties. Understanding these nuances is not just advisable—it’s absolutely essential for anyone facing such allegations.

This comprehensive guide aims to demystify Maryland assault and battery laws, providing clarity on definitions, potential consequences, the legal process, and effective defense strategies. My goal is to equip you with the foundational knowledge necessary to understand your situation, the stakes involved, and why securing seasoned legal representation is paramount. We will delve into the specific statutes that govern these charges in Maryland, explain the roles of key legal agencies, and outline common mistakes to avoid. Navigating the legal system alone when facing such serious charges is a precarious endeavor; my hope is this resource serves as your authoritative starting point.

Introduction to Maryland Assault & Battery Laws

Maryland law consolidates the common law offenses of assault, battery, and false imprisonment under the single statutory crime of “Assault.” This means that what was historically considered separate acts of putting someone in fear (assault) and unlawful physical contact (battery) are now prosecuted under the same broad umbrella, with different degrees defining the severity based on intent, injury, and weapon use.

In Maryland, the term “assault” is broadly defined and encompasses three primary concepts from common law:

  • Intent to Frighten: An attempt to cause harmful or offensive contact, or an intentional act that places another in reasonable apprehension of immediate bodily harm.
  • Attempted Battery: An attempt to commit a battery, even if the actual physical contact does not occur.
  • Battery: Any unlawful physical contact with another person. This does not require intent to injure, only intent to make contact.

This comprehensive definition, primarily rooted in the Maryland Criminal Law Article, Title 3, Subtitle 2, allows prosecutors flexibility in charging. The severity of the charge then hinges on factors such as the degree of injury inflicted, the presence of a weapon, and the intent of the perpetrator. It is a critical distinction that even a threat, if it creates reasonable apprehension of harm, can constitute assault under Maryland law. Similarly, any unwanted physical touching, however minor, can be considered battery within this framework. Understanding these foundational definitions is the first step in comprehending the charges you may face.

Consequences and Stakes of Maryland Assault Charges

The consequences of a conviction for assault and battery in Maryland are severe and far-reaching, ranging from significant prison time and hefty fines to long-term implications for employment, housing, and personal freedoms, making it imperative to mount a robust defense.

Maryland law delineates assault into distinct degrees, each carrying its own set of penalties. The distinctions are primarily found in the Maryland Criminal Law Article, specifically § 3-202 for First-Degree Assault and § 3-203 for Second-Degree Assault. The stakes are incredibly high, as even a seemingly minor altercation can lead to serious charges.

First-Degree Assault (Maryland Criminal Law Article § 3-202)

First-degree assault is the most serious form of assault in Maryland, classified as a felony. To secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove that you committed an assault with the intent to cause serious physical injury, or that you used a firearm in the commission of an assault. “Serious physical injury” is defined as an injury that:

  • Creates a substantial risk of death;
  • Causes serious permanent disfigurement; or
  • Causes protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ.

Penalties for first-degree assault are severe: up to 25 years in prison. The long-term implications extend far beyond incarceration, including a permanent felony record that can hinder future employment, housing, and even civic participation.

Second-Degree Assault (Maryland Criminal Law Article § 3-203)

Second-degree assault is a broader category, typically charged as a misdemeanor, though it can sometimes be charged as a felony if the victim is a law enforcement officer or another protected person. It encompasses any common law assault, battery, or attempted battery that does not rise to the level of first-degree assault. This includes minor physical contact, attempts to cause harm, or placing someone in fear of harm without the specific intent to cause serious physical injury.

  • Typical Penalties: Up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,500.
  • Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer (Felony): If the victim is a law enforcement officer, parole and probation agent, or certain other specified public safety officials, the charge becomes a felony with penalties of up to 10 years in prison (mandatory minimum 5 years if the officer suffered a serious physical injury) and/or a fine of up to $5,000.

Even a misdemeanor conviction for second-degree assault can significantly impact your life, leading to difficulties in obtaining professional licenses, loss of certain rights, and a stain on your criminal record that can follow you for years. It’s important to remember that under Maryland Criminal Law Article § 3-204, Reckless Endangerment, which involves acting in a way that creates a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury to another, is often charged alongside or as an alternative to assault charges, carrying penalties of up to 5 years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine. The interconnectedness of these statutes underscores the serious nature of any assault-related charge in Maryland.

The legal process for assault and battery charges in Maryland is a multi-stage journey, commencing with arrest and often culminating in trial or plea agreements, requiring a thorough understanding of the roles played by various courts and the Office of the State’s Attorney.

Once an alleged assault or battery occurs, the journey through Maryland’s legal system begins. This process, while seemingly daunting, has distinct stages, and understanding them can help you prepare. The primary agencies and courts involved will be your local law enforcement, the Office of the State’s Attorney, the Maryland District Courts, and potentially the Maryland Circuit Courts.

1. Investigation and Arrest

The process typically starts with a complaint to a local law enforcement agency, such as the Maryland State Police or a county/municipal police department. Officers investigate, interview witnesses, and gather evidence. If they determine there’s probable cause, an arrest may occur, or a summons may be issued. It is crucial to remember that anything you say to law enforcement can be used against you.

2. Initial Appearance and Bail Review

Following an arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner or a judge in the Maryland District Courts. This is where bail conditions are set. The Commissioner or judge will consider factors like your ties to the community, criminal history, and the severity of the charges when determining whether to release you on your own recognizance, set a monetary bail, or hold you without bail.

3. Charging and Preliminary Hearing (if applicable)

The Office of the State’s Attorney in Maryland, which serves as the prosecutor, will formally file charges. For felony charges, a preliminary hearing may be held in the Maryland District Courts to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to a grand jury or transfer it to the Maryland Circuit Courts. Misdemeanor assault and battery cases typically remain in the District Court for trial.

4. Discovery and Pre-Trial Motions

Once charges are filed, both the prosecution and defense engage in discovery—the process of exchanging information relevant to the case. This includes police reports, witness statements, and evidence. Your attorney will meticulously review this material. During this phase, various pre-trial motions may be filed, such as motions to suppress evidence or to dismiss charges, often argued before a judge in either the Maryland District or Circuit Courts, depending on jurisdiction.

5. Plea Bargaining

Many criminal cases in Maryland are resolved through plea bargaining. This involves negotiations between your attorney and the Office of the State’s Attorney, where an agreement might be reached for you to plead guilty to a lesser charge or with a reduced sentence in exchange for avoiding a trial. Any plea agreement must be approved by the presiding judge.

6. Trial

If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial.

  • District Court: For misdemeanor assault charges, trials are typically bench trials (before a judge only) in the Maryland District Courts.
  • Circuit Court: For felony first-degree assault charges, or if a defendant requests a jury trial for a misdemeanor, the case will be heard in the Maryland Circuit Courts. Here, a jury or judge will hear evidence, and the State’s Attorney will present their case, while your attorney will present your defense.

During trial, the Office of the State’s Attorney bears the burden of proving your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Your attorney will cross-examine witnesses, present evidence, and argue on your behalf.

7. Sentencing

If you are convicted or plead guilty, the court will proceed to sentencing. The judge considers various factors, including the severity of the crime, your criminal history, and any mitigating circumstances. Sentencing can involve incarceration, fines, probation, community service, and mandatory anger management or domestic violence counseling.

Navigating these stages requires a comprehensive understanding of Maryland law and court procedures. The involvement of various agencies, from initial police investigation to court proceedings in the Maryland District Courts and Maryland Circuit Courts, underscores the need for experienced legal counsel throughout the entire process.

The SRIS Maryland Assault Case Assessment Checklist Tool

When facing Maryland assault charges, a systematic approach to understanding your situation is paramount. The SRIS Maryland Assault Case Assessment Checklist Tool is designed to help you organize key information and identify critical areas for discussion with your legal counsel. While this tool is not a substitute for legal advice, it can be an invaluable aid in preparing for your defense.

How to Use The SRIS Maryland Assault Case Assessment Checklist:

  1. Gather Basic Information:
    • Date, Time, and Location of Incident: Be as specific as possible.
    • Parties Involved: Your name, the alleged victim’s name, names of any witnesses.
    • Contact Information for Witnesses: If available.
    • Law Enforcement Agency Involved: E.g., Maryland State Police, County Police, City Police.
    • Officer(s) Name(s) or Badge Number(s): If known.
    • Case Number / Charging Document Number: Crucial for locating your case.
  2. Detail the Incident:
    • What transpired leading up to the incident? Provide a chronological account.
    • What exactly happened during the alleged assault/battery?
    • Was there any physical contact? Describe it precisely.
    • Were any threats made? If so, what were they?
    • Was a weapon involved? Describe it.
    • Were there any injuries? Describe them and if medical attention was sought by anyone.
  3. Evaluate Intent and Circumstances:
    • What was your intent during the incident? (e.g., self-defense, no intent to harm, no intent to touch).
    • Were there any preceding provocations?
    • Was alcohol or drugs a factor for any party involved?
    • Were you acting in self-defense or defense of another person?
    • Were there any cameras or recording devices present? (e.g., security cameras, cell phones).
  4. Document Post-Incident Actions:
    • Were you arrested? If so, when and where?
    • What did the police say or do? Did they read you your rights?
    • Did you make any statements to the police? If so, what did you say?
    • Were there any protective orders or peace orders issued?
    • Have you had any contact with the alleged victim since the incident?
  5. List Any Relevant Evidence:
    • Texts, emails, social media posts related to the incident or parties.
    • Photos or videos from the scene.
    • Medical records related to injuries.
    • Any physical items (clothing, objects).
  6. Prepare Questions for Your Attorney:
    • What are the specific charges against me?
    • What are the potential penalties I face?
    • What is the typical timeline for a case like this in Maryland?
    • What are my best defense options?
    • What information do you need from me?

Completing this checklist provides a solid foundation for your initial confidential case review with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., enabling our attorneys to more efficiently assess your situation and begin formulating a robust defense strategy tailored to the nuances of Maryland assault and battery laws.

Legal Strategies & Defenses Against Maryland Assault Charges

Effectively defending against Maryland assault charges requires a strategic approach, often leveraging defenses such as self-defense, defense of others, lack of intent, or challenging the prosecution’s factual assertions, all tailored to the specific circumstances of the alleged incident.

Facing charges under Maryland assault and battery laws requires more than just reacting to the prosecution’s case; it demands a proactive and well-devised defense strategy. As seasoned legal professionals, we understand that every case is unique, and a successful defense hinges on a thorough investigation of the facts and an application of relevant legal principles. Here are some of the most common and effective legal strategies and defenses used in Maryland assault cases:

1. Self-Defense or Defense of Others

This is perhaps the most common and powerful defense. In Maryland, you are legally permitted to use reasonable force to defend yourself or another person from immediate harm. For this defense to be successful, several elements must generally be present:

  • You must have genuinely believed you were in immediate danger of bodily harm.
  • Your belief must have been reasonable under the circumstances.
  • The force you used must have been reasonable and proportional to the perceived threat.
  • You must not have been the aggressor (unless you retreated and the aggressor continued the attack).

Demonstrating these elements often involves witness testimony, physical evidence, and a careful reconstruction of the events leading up to the alleged assault.

2. Lack of Intent

For many assault charges, especially first-degree assault, the prosecution must prove specific intent (e.g., intent to cause serious physical injury). If your actions were accidental, or if you did not possess the requisite intent to cause harm or apprehension, this can be a strong defense. For instance, an accidental bump is not battery if there was no intent to touch or cause harm.

3. Consent

In some limited circumstances, if the alleged victim consented to the physical contact (e.g., in sports, consensual fighting, or roughhousing), it might serve as a defense. However, consent cannot be used as a defense if the contact resulted in serious physical injury or if it was against public policy (e.g., consenting to a severe beating).

4. Mistaken Identity

Eyewitness identification can be unreliable. If you can demonstrate that you were not the person who committed the assault, or that the alleged victim or witnesses mistakenly identified you, this can lead to an acquittal. Alibi evidence is critical here.

5. Factual Disputes and Contradictions

Often, assault cases come down to “he said, she said.” A seasoned attorney will meticulously examine all evidence presented by the Office of the State’s Attorney, looking for inconsistencies in witness statements, police reports, and forensic evidence. Casting reasonable doubt on the prosecution’s narrative is a cornerstone of criminal defense.

6. False Accusations/Malice

Unfortunately, some assault allegations stem from false accusations, often in the context of domestic disputes, revenge, or to gain an advantage in other legal proceedings (e.g., child custody). Proving a false accusation requires careful investigation into the accuser’s motives and history.

7. Defense of Property

While generally less applicable to assault charges involving personal injury, limited force may be permissible to protect one’s property from theft or damage. The force used must be strictly proportional and reasonable to the threat to property.

Each defense strategy requires thorough legal research, evidence gathering, and skilled argumentation in the Maryland District or Circuit Courts. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings decades of experience to meticulously evaluate your case and determine the most effective defense strategy under Maryland assault and battery laws.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Maryland Assault Cases

Individuals facing Maryland assault charges often make critical errors that can severely undermine their defense, emphasizing the importance of remaining silent, refraining from contacting the alleged victim, and securing immediate legal representation.

When you are charged with or are being investigated for assault and battery in Maryland, the actions you take immediately following the incident can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Avoiding common pitfalls is as crucial as understanding your legal rights. Here are some of the most frequent mistakes we observe and strongly advise against:

  1. Talking to Law Enforcement Without Legal Counsel: This is arguably the biggest mistake. While you may feel compelled to explain your side of the story or believe you can talk your way out of trouble, anything you say can and will be used against you. The police are trained to gather evidence, and even seemingly innocent statements can be misconstrued or used to establish intent. Politely state that you wish to exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney.
  2. Contacting the Alleged Victim or Witnesses: After an incident, it might seem natural to want to apologize, explain your actions, or persuade someone not to press charges. However, any contact—direct or indirect, via text, call, social media, or through a third party—can be interpreted as witness tampering, intimidation, or harassment. This can lead to new, more serious charges, or be used to demonstrate guilt or a lack of remorse.
  3. Destroying or Concealing Evidence: Tampering with or disposing of any evidence related to the incident, such as clothing, weapons, or electronic communications, is a felony offense. Even if you believe the evidence is incriminating, attempting to hide or destroy it will only make your legal situation far worse.
  4. Failing to Document Your Own Injuries or Evidence: If you acted in self-defense and sustained injuries, it is critical to document them immediately. Take photos, seek medical attention, and obtain medical records. Similarly, if there are witnesses who can support your account, obtain their contact information. Failing to preserve this exculpatory evidence can weaken your defense.
  5. Discussing Your Case on Social Media: Anything you post online, even on private accounts, can be subpoenaed and used against you in court. Avoid discussing the incident, the alleged victim, or the charges on any social media platform. These posts can be taken out of context or used to show a lack of remorse or admission of guilt.
  6. Violating a Protective Order or Peace Order: If a protective order or peace order has been issued against you, strictly adhere to its terms. Violating such an order can lead to immediate arrest, additional criminal charges, and seriously jeopardize your defense in the underlying assault case. Even unintentional contact can be a violation.
  7. Procrastinating in Seeking Legal Representation: The sooner you engage a seasoned attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., the better. Early intervention allows your attorney to investigate, gather crucial evidence, interview witnesses while memories are fresh, and begin formulating a defense strategy. Delaying can result in lost opportunities and a weaker position.
  8. Not Being Honest with Your Attorney: Your attorney is on your side and cannot provide the most effective defense without knowing all the facts, good and bad. Attorney-client privilege protects your communications. Withholding information only hampers your defense.

Avoiding these common mistakes is paramount to protecting your rights and mounting the strongest possible defense under Maryland assault and battery laws. Your actions in the immediate aftermath of an incident and throughout the legal process are as critical as the legal strategy itself.

Glossary of Key Legal Terms in Maryland Assault Cases

Understanding the terminology used in Maryland assault and battery cases is fundamental to grasping the legal concepts involved. This glossary defines key terms you may encounter:

Assault
In Maryland, “Assault” is a consolidated term encompassing what were historically distinct offenses of assault, battery, and false imprisonment. It can refer to an attempt to cause harmful or offensive physical contact, an intentional act that places another in reasonable apprehension of immediate bodily harm, or an actual unlawful physical contact (battery).
Battery
Under common law and as integrated into Maryland’s assault statute, battery refers to any unlawful, non-consensual physical contact with another person. The contact does not necessarily need to cause injury, only to be unwanted.
Apprehension
A key element of “intent to frighten” assault. It refers to a person’s reasonable expectation or fear that immediate harmful or offensive contact is about to occur. It’s the anticipation of contact, not necessarily the contact itself.
Specific Intent
A state of mind where the defendant not only intends to perform the action but also intends to bring about a particular result. For First-Degree Assault in Maryland, the prosecution must prove specific intent to cause “serious physical injury.”
General Intent
A state of mind where the defendant intends to perform the action, but not necessarily to bring about a particular result. Most Second-Degree Assault charges are general intent crimes, requiring only an intent to make contact or perform the act that causes apprehension or contact.
Self-Defense
A legal justification where a person uses reasonable force to protect themselves or another from what they reasonably believe to be immediate bodily harm. The force used must be proportionate to the threat.
Mutual Combat
A defense sometimes raised where both parties willingly and fairly entered into a fight. While it can sometimes negate the “unlawful” element of battery, it is a complex defense and rarely a complete defense if serious injuries occur.

Common Scenarios & Questions Regarding Maryland Assault Laws

Understanding how Maryland assault laws apply to real-world situations can clarify the complexities of the statutes and help individuals recognize when legal counsel is critically needed.

As a seasoned attorney, I frequently encounter various scenarios that lead to assault and battery charges in Maryland. Here are a few common situations and the questions that often arise, illustrating the practical application of Maryland assault and battery laws:

Scenario 1: The Heated Argument that Escalates

John and Mark are neighbors. During a heated argument over a property line, John pushes Mark. Mark falls, scraping his knee. Mark calls the police, and John is charged with second-degree assault.

Questions:

  • Does a simple push constitute “assault” in Maryland? Yes, under Maryland’s definition of battery (unlawful physical contact), even a push can be considered second-degree assault.
  • What if John didn’t intend to injure Mark, only to push him away? The intent to make physical contact is sufficient for battery; specific intent to injure is not required for second-degree assault.
  • Could John argue self-defense if Mark first stepped into his personal space aggressively? Possibly, if John reasonably believed he needed to use force to defend himself from immediate harm, and the force used (the push) was proportionate.

Scenario 2: The Barroom Brawl

During a night out in Baltimore, Alex gets into a verbal altercation that turns physical. He throws a punch that misses its intended target but hits a bystander, breaking their nose. Alex is charged with first-degree assault.

Questions:

  • Why first-degree assault if he hit the wrong person? Maryland law includes the concept of “transferred intent.” If Alex had the intent to cause serious injury to one person but accidentally causes it to another, the intent can transfer.
  • What if Alex claims self-defense because the initial argument was aggressive? While self-defense might apply to the initial altercation, throwing a punch that misses and hits an innocent bystander can complicate this defense, especially regarding the proportionality of force and the identity of the “victim.”
  • What are the key elements the prosecution will focus on? The prosecution will focus on Alex’s intent to cause serious physical injury (or using a firearm), the actual serious physical injury sustained by the bystander, and the lack of a valid defense.

Scenario 3: Domestic Dispute with No Visible Injury

Sarah and David, who are married, get into an argument. Sarah grabs David’s arm to prevent him from leaving the room. David feels threatened and calls the police. Sarah is charged with second-degree assault, even though David has no visible marks.

Questions:

  • Can assault charges be filed without visible injury? Absolutely. As discussed, assault in Maryland includes battery (unlawful physical contact) and placing someone in reasonable apprehension of immediate bodily harm. No physical injury is required for a second-degree assault charge.
  • How does the domestic relationship affect the charge? Domestic assault cases are often handled with particular sensitivity by the Office of the State’s Attorney and may involve additional considerations like protective orders or peace orders.
  • What if Sarah argues it was just a “grab” and not meant to harm? The intent to make physical contact (the “grab”) is generally sufficient for battery under Maryland law, regardless of the intent to cause injury. The reasonableness of David’s fear would also be a factor if the charge is based on apprehension.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland Assault & Battery Laws

Here are answers to common questions concerning Maryland assault and battery laws, drawing on extensive experience in the field:

1. What is the difference between assault and battery in Maryland?
Maryland law has consolidated common law assault (placing someone in fear of harm) and battery (unlawful physical contact) under the single crime of “Assault.” So, while historically distinct, both actions now fall under the broader statutory definition of assault in Maryland, with the severity determined by the degree of the offense.
2. What constitutes “serious physical injury” for first-degree assault in Maryland?
Under Maryland Criminal Law Article § 3-201, serious physical injury means an injury that: (a) creates a substantial risk of death; (b) causes serious permanent disfigurement; or (c) causes protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ.
3. Can I be charged with assault if I didn’t touch anyone?
Yes. If your actions caused another person to have a reasonable apprehension of immediate bodily harm, even without physical contact, you could be charged with assault (specifically, under the “intent to frighten” aspect of second-degree assault) in Maryland.
4. Is self-defense a valid defense for assault charges in Maryland?
Yes, self-defense is a powerful and valid defense in Maryland. However, it requires demonstrating that you reasonably believed you were in immediate danger and used only the necessary and proportionate force to defend yourself or another. The details of the situation are crucial.
5. What is the penalty for second-degree assault in Maryland?
Typically, second-degree assault is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,500. If the victim is a law enforcement officer or certain other public safety officials, it becomes a felony with higher penalties.
6. What is the penalty for first-degree assault in Maryland?
First-degree assault is a felony punishable by up to 25 years in prison. This is a very serious charge requiring immediate and aggressive legal representation.
7. How long does an assault case take in Maryland?
The timeline varies greatly depending on the complexity of the case, the court (District vs. Circuit), and whether it proceeds to trial or is resolved through a plea bargain. It can range from a few months to over a year.
8. Can assault charges be expunged in Maryland?
Yes, certain assault convictions or non-convictions (such as dismissals or “stet” dispositions) may be eligible for expungement in Maryland after a specific waiting period, provided other conditions are met. This is a complex area best discussed with an attorney.
9. What role does the Office of the State’s Attorney play?
The Office of the State’s Attorney is the prosecuting body in Maryland. They are responsible for reviewing evidence, formally charging individuals, negotiating plea agreements, and presenting the state’s case in court against those accused of crimes like assault and battery.
10. What if the alleged victim doesn’t want to press charges?
In Maryland, once the police or the Office of the State’s Attorney become involved, the decision to prosecute rests with the state, not the alleged victim. While a victim’s wishes may be considered, they do not have the power to “drop” charges once filed by the state.
11. Are there civil consequences in addition to criminal penalties?
Yes, in addition to criminal charges, a person accused of assault and battery may also face a civil lawsuit filed by the alleged victim seeking damages for injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A criminal conviction can sometimes be used as evidence in a civil case.
12. What is reckless endangerment, and how does it relate to assault?
Reckless Endangerment (Maryland Criminal Law Article § 3-204) is a separate crime involving acting in a way that creates a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury to another. It is often charged alongside or as an alternative to assault, particularly when a person’s actions were reckless but perhaps lacked the specific intent required for first-degree assault.
13. Do I need an attorney if I’m charged with assault in Maryland?
Absolutely. Given the severe penalties and long-term consequences, attempting to navigate Maryland assault and battery laws without experienced legal representation is highly risky. An attorney can protect your rights, investigate your case, negotiate with prosecutors, and build a strong defense.
14. How can Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. help me with a Maryland assault charge?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides aggressive and knowledgeable legal defense for individuals facing Maryland assault charges. Our seasoned attorneys conduct thorough investigations, challenge evidence, explore all possible defenses (like self-defense or mistaken identity), negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you vigorously in the Maryland District Courts or Maryland Circuit Courts to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Today

If you or a loved one are facing charges under Maryland assault and battery laws, the time to act is now. Do not delay in seeking experienced legal counsel. The stakes are too high to navigate this complex legal landscape alone. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. immediately for a confidential case review. Our seasoned attorneys are ready to provide the aggressive and knowledgeable representation you need to protect your rights and your future. Call us at 888-437-7747.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article by Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. Laws vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. For advice on specific legal issues, you should consult with a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

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